Before performing the procedure, we will need to determine if you are a viable candidate for PRF Treatment. Although most patients are, individuals with blood clotting disorders will not be good candidates. First, we will collect a sample of your blood, place the sample in glass tubes, and place these tubes in a centrifuge for approximately twelve minutes, which will isolate the platelets in your blood and create a concentrate or a “plug”. Once this centrifuge process is complete, the tubes are placed in a sterile tube holder and the plug is extracted from the tube. This process of centrifugation separates the blood sample into blood cells that gather at the bottom of the tube, a strongly polymerized fibrin in the middle, and acellular plasma at the top. The plug forms a fibrin matrix which concentrates nearly all the growth factors and platelets of the blood harvest that results in unique mechanical properties that will rapidly accelerate the healing process.

To prepare a PRF membrane, the plug is removed from the tube and scissors are used to separate the red blood cell fragment and the fibrin plug or clot. Once the PRF membranes are ready, they will remain useable for several hours following preparation, provided they are conserved in physiologic conditions and prepared correctly. Once prepared, you will undergo the procedure you have been scheduled for and the platelet-rich-fibrin membrane will be applied towards the end of the procedure. You should not experience have any discomfort when the PRF membrane is placed since local anesthetic has already been administered. For example, in the case of a ridge preservation procedure for a dental implant, PRF will be placed over the bone grafted area after which the socket is closed and the healing process can begin.  Within a few months, the site will have healed bone in the area and will be ready for implant placement.

Aftercare Instructions

Following any type of periodontal procedure, your body undergoes a recovery process as it begins to restore blood vessels, tissue, and bone around where the surgery occurred. Although PRF will help your body in this healing process, it is still important that you follow aftercare instructions provided to you following your procedure. It is also important to understand that although research supports the efficacy of PRF in facilitating the healing process, everyone heals at a different rate. Factors such as your overall health, the type of procedure you have performed, and your age will all play a role in your rate of recovery.